Historical Marker

Delaware County Civil War Memorial

Historical marker location:
Delaware, Ohio
( Marker is on Sandusky Street, on the left when traveling north.)

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

Ohio is known as the "Mother of Presidents" because of its role in producing so many US presidents. In addition to the seven presidents who were born in Ohio, another president, William Henry Harrison, lived in Ohio for much of his life and is sometimes counted as an honorary Ohioan.
Ohio random facts
Delaware County, Ohio, located in the central part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee people. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to establish farms and settlements in the region.

Formally established in 1808, Delaware County was named after the Delaware Tribe. The county's early economy was primarily agricultural, with farmers cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The development of infrastructure, including canals and railroads, boosted commerce and facilitated the transport of goods to larger markets.

Delaware County played a significant role in the abolitionist movement during the 19th century. The town of Delaware, the county seat, was home to several prominent abolitionists, including Harriet Beecher Stowe. The county's location along the Underground Railroad made it an important stop for escaped slaves on their way to freedom in Canada.

The 20th century brought rapid growth and urbanization to Delaware County. The discovery of natural resources, such as oil and gas, led to economic prosperity in the region. The county saw the construction of significant infrastructure projects, including highways and modern utilities, which attracted more businesses and residents.

Today, Delaware County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Ohio, experiencing substantial population growth and ongoing development. While the county continues to embrace its agricultural roots, it is also becoming a thriving suburban community, known for its excellent schools, vibrant local businesses, and beautiful natural scenery.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Delaware County, Ohio.

  • 1803: Delaware County is established on February 10, following the organization of the state of Ohio.
  • 1817: The county seat is moved from Delaware to Berlin, which is later renamed Delaware and remains the county seat to this day.
  • 1829: The first newspaper in the county, called the Delaware Gazette, is established.
  • 1833: The first railroad line, the Delaware and Sandusky Railroad, is built in the county.
  • 1851: The Ohio Wesleyan University is established in Delaware.
  • 1862: Delaware County sends troops to fight in the American Civil War, contributing to the Union Army.
  • 1908: The first paved road is constructed in Delaware County.
  • 1911: The town of Powell is incorporated in Delaware County.
  • 1940: The Delaware Dam is completed, creating Delaware Lake.
  • 1976: Ohio Wesleyan University celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary.
  • 1999: Delaware County's population surpasses 100,000 residents, marking a period of significant growth.